 Cappadocia is one of the most fascinating geological
and historical areas in the world. Its fertile land and its strange rock
formations have provided ample food and shelter for its inhabitants for
thousands of years. Here people found land perfect for growing fruits and
vegetables, cave dwellings to protect them from the elements, and a bewildering
landscape that opened their souls to religious enlightenment.
Millions of years ago a series of volcanic eruptions spewed ash throughout
the region, later turning into a soft rock called tuff. Thousands of
years of wind and rain formed the strange, cone-shaped rock formations
now called fairy
chimneys. As people began inhabiting the region they
found the soft rock easy to carve, shaping dwellings for themselves inside
the fairy chimneys. They found these homes provided perfect insulation;
the caves were cool during the hot summer temperatures and preserved
warmth during the cold, snowy winters. Placing the entrances to their
cave homes high above ground and out of site they also provided perfect
camouflage to protect them from their enemies.
 In the heart of it all is the village of Goreme, the prime location
from which to explore all the mysteries of Cappadocia. Here is a place
where living history blends with the modern world. Every modern convenience
is provided to visitors, yet you still have a sense of having stepped
into another place and time. Goreme's inhabitants are still living in
harmony with their surroundings, much as their ancestors have for centuries.
Here you will find Turkish hospitality in abundance. People are curious
about their visitors and are always ready to sit and chat over a cup
of tea, often extending invitations to their cave homes for a first hand
look. This blending of hospitality, history, and spectacular scenery
allows a perspective unique in the world.
Whether you are an artist, historian, or outdoor enthusiast, Goreme
holds something special for everyone.
 For those interested in art and history the area is rich with opportunity
for exploration. There are hundreds of ancient cave churches carved into
the rocks, with beautiful Byzantine paintings covering the interiors;
here you will find one of the highest concentrations of medieval painted
churches in the Christian world. A short walk from the center of town
is the Goreme Open Air Museum, the first monastery of its kind in the
world. Near Goreme is the abandoned town of Zelve, composed entirely
of caves in the midst of 3 beautiful valleys. Its honeycombed interiors
housed practical dwellings interlaced with religious chambers. Until
the 1920's it was inhabited by both Christians and Muslims living together
in harmony.
At one time this area was central on the Silk Road, every road leading
from its center like a spoke on a wagon wheel. Visit the caravanserais,
an essential place for weary travelers. Learn about the customs and culture
of the time, even during dangerous times at the caravanserais every traveler
was given a safe place to sleep and a meal to eat.
 In Mustafapasa you can see fine examples of Greek architecture; in Cauvsin
you can visit an abandoned Greek settlement, the ghost town perched on
the side of the village. Visit Ortahisar and Uchisar to wander through
ancient fortresses carved from stone.
If you prefer to explore the depths of Cappadocia, there are over 30
underground cities, some reaching depths of 89 meters. The stories these
cities tell give a fascinating perspective on the way of life for some
of its early settlers and the various conquests in the region.
The diverse landscape of the region makes it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
There are countless valleys to explore, each holding their own special
appeal. Hike through the green valley of Ihlara, stopping for a lunch
of fresh fish and salad at a restaurant on the river. Walk from Goreme
to the castle in Uchisar through Pigeon Valley, admiring the inventive
nature of its inhabitants and their pigeon houses, used in the past to
collect droppings to provide phosphorus to fertilize the fields. Marvel
at the striated rock in Rose and Red Valleys, emblazoned with hues of
red, pink, yellow and gold.
 Walking is only one way to see the area; it is easy to rent a mountain
bike, motor scooter, ATV, or enjoy the scenery by horseback. For a true
adventure go white water rafting on the Zamanti River with a group of
seasoned professionals. To see Cappadocia at its most spectacular take
a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, later celebrating your ride with new
friends over a champagne toast.
Cappadocia is the kind of place you can return to year after year, each
time discovering new wonders. After one visit we expect you will feel
much as we do, a passion for its natural beauty, its people and its culture.
At Hotel Lalezar we offer you a warm welcome and hope you will find this
your home away from home.
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